But on each occasion his name was read out, it was greeted with a chorus of boos at the Grosvenor Hotel in London. The awards bash was filled with professionals and guests.

Tweeting from the Grosvenor, ESPN correspondent Miguel Delaney wrote: "A few loud boos ripple around room when Suarez's name read out for best XI. Only one booed."

The PFA came under fire for their refusal to withdraw Suarez from its Player of the Year shortlist after he bit Branislav Ivanovic during Liverpool's game against Chelsea at Anfield - for which he was subsequently hit with a 10-game suspension.

For all the controversy that has followed Suarez during his career in the Premier League, he has performed with distinction for Liverpool and his 23 goals earned him the recognition of his peers.

Suarez was the only Liverpool player to be named in Team of the Year, which was dominated by champions Manchester United.